This phrase means "even if" or "although." You use it to say something is true, even when another thing might make you think it is not.
Noun + といえどもPrimary
Verb [dictionary form] + といえども
い-Adjective + といえども
な-Adjective + といえども
This phrase means "even if" or "although." You use it to say something is true, even when another thing might make you think it is not.
いかに専門家といえども、全ての質問に答えられるわけではありません。
Even for an expert, it's not the case that they can answer every question.
百戦錬磨の勇者といえども、この魔王には勝てなかった。
Even for a battle-hardened hero, they could not defeat this demon king.
直接の命令ではないといえども、上司の意向を無視することはできない。
Even though it may not be a direct order, one cannot ignore the boss's intentions.
彼は、理由があったといえども、その行動を正当化することはできないだろう。
He, even if he had his reasons, will likely not be able to justify that action.
いかに些細なことといえども、約束は約束だ。
However trivial a matter it may be, a promise is a promise.
This phrase is like saying "even if it's true that..." It makes the first part sound very strong. Then it shows something surprising that still happens.
This phrase is very formal. It sounds like old writing. It is stronger than "~to ieba". That phrase is also formal but more common today. "~mono no" shows a contrast too. But it can mean you are sad or surprised. This phrase just states a strong contrast.
Don't use this when you are speaking politely. For example, you cannot say "I go even if" with polite words. You can use it with nouns, verbs, and い-adjectives. You can also use "である" before it with nouns or な-adjectives.
Use this when you want to write in a very formal way. It is for essays or official papers. Do not use it when you talk to people.
Contrasts with(1)
More formal alternatives(3)
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